Sunday, July 1, 2012

Abstinence Tour of Robert Marshall (1819-1891) – Journal Entry of 19th September 1839

Visited a Mr. Andrew Bell in Broughtyferry and had a sight of several very curious glasses, among which was a very powerful microscope.  This individual informed me that he had mixed a little water and vegetables together for a few days, and on taking a view of a single drop had found it to contain an innumerable quantity of living animals, he had dipped the point of a needle in whisky and put it to the drop of water, and all the animals died.

Proceeded by the Arbroath Railway to Carnoustie.  Was directed by the Sec. Alex Balfour Wright to the Pres., a Mr. Wright, a taylor.  At first he would not hear of a meeting being got up.  I told him if he would not assist me I should call a meeting myself.  By degrees he softened down.  He could do nothing "he said" without the committee.  I thereupon got a quorum of their Committee called, and as they approved of me, the Bellman was sent about to call a meeting, which took place in a large School-room.   About l00 were present.  I lectured about 2 1/4 hours.  When through 5 individuals came forward and signed the pledge.  The Society here amounts to 80.

Mr. Wright was very kind to me he seems to have the matter at heart.

Typed by Betty Kay 11th May 1996, from Dan Marshall`s notes of the original journal.

©2012, copyright Alana Farrell

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